[RONWISER]

Rob,

I just happen to have a 1972 911S with the 5 speed manual and have been driving both to make comparisons. The first thing you notice between the two cars is the greater torque in starting from a dead-stop, in the Sporto. In the manual S, I almost feel I have to slip the clutch to get the car moving. No such issue in the Sporto, it takes right off. Probably quicker from a dead stop than the manual shifter.

Second observation, most of us know how to shift a manual tranny; the Sporto takes some practice because the gearshifter just feels completely different, as there is no direct mechanical connection, just a hydraulic one (I think). So it takes a little practice to feel secure about what you gear you put it in.

Also, you must take your hand off the shifter to engage the clutch. So no bad habits like driving with your hand resting on the stick.

Porsche ads back in 1968 claim the sporto shifts 'even quicker than before'. Also one of the first Porsche's with sporto won the 1967 Nurburgring 84-hour endurance race, so there is some racing heritage tot he sporto.

Finally, the car is totally stock, no performance mods, as the PO was into concours and restoration.

There were 147 911 S engines with sporto's manufactured in 1972; not clear that many remain in existence because it is fairly easy to convert them to the 915 manual transmission.

Thanks for your interest.

Ron